When a business needs voice and data from one box, the Adtran Total Access 900 family puts a router and a VoIP gateway together. As a result, carriers and enterprises use these units to connect analog phones, fax lines and PBXs to SIP or T1 services.
This guide compares the TA 900 and 900e generations, FXS counts as well as Lifeline FXO options. It also covers legacy TDM access spares, such as the MX408e pseudowire gateway.
What the Adtran Total Access 900 series does
In short, each Total Access 900 unit is an IP business gateway. In other words, it routes data, handles voice and offers analog FXS ports for phones and fax. The model number tells you the FXS count, so a 908e has 8 ports, a 916e has 16 and a 924e has 24.
In addition, these units run Adtran's AOS operating system and support SIP and MGCP voice. Many models also offer T1 interfaces, which helps when a site still uses T1 service or a PBX.
Adtran Total Access 900 vs 900e generations
Three generations share the same idea, although they differ in WAN and LAN options. So the generation matters as much as the port count.
Original TA 900
For instance, the 4212924L1 Total Access 924 is an IP business gateway with up to 24 FXS ports, a T1 WAN and an Ethernet port. It also offers DSX-1 PRI/CAS for a PBX connection, which still suits older phone systems.
900e second generation
Meanwhile, the second generation 900e units focus on T1 and multi-T1 WAN service. For example, the 4242908L1 TA 908e has 8 FXS ports, four T1/FT1 WAN ports and two 10/100 LAN ports. Likewise, the 4242924L3 TA 924e offers 24 FXS ports with the same WAN and LAN layout.
900e third generation
Third generation units then add Gigabit Ethernet in a compact 1U chassis. As before, the 4243908F1 908e, 4243916F1 916e and 4243924F1 924e cover 8, 16 and 24 FXS ports. In addition, the 916e offers four T1/FT1 ports and three Ethernet ports, while the 924e adds a built-in firewall.
Lifeline FXO and SBC options
Each third generation model also comes in an F2 version with one Lifeline FXO port. So the 4243908F2, 4243916F2 and 4243924F2 add that port to the 908e, 916e and 924e. A Lifeline FXO port connects to an analog line, so a site keeps a path for calls when the IP service fails.
Listings for the 908e F2 also note an optional 100-session eSBC capability. So if you need session border control, ask us to confirm the feature on the unit you order.
How to choose an Adtran Total Access 900 model
Before anything else, count the analog phones, fax lines and alarm circuits at the site. Then pick the 908e, 916e or 924e with a little room to grow.
After that, check the WAN. Second generation units suit T1 and multi-T1 service, while third generation units suit Gigabit Ethernet hand-offs. Finally, choose a Lifeline FXO model if the site needs analog failover.
Also, match the generation you already run when you can. That way, your team works with the same ports and layout at every site, which also makes spares simpler.
Legacy TDM access spares
Many networks still carry TDM circuits next to their IP voice gear. That is why the MX408e pseudowire gateway still matters, because it carries TDM leased line services over Ethernet. Silverback also supplies it as 1189608L1 and 1189608G1, and the G1 version has 100Mb LAN and TDM interfaces.
Similarly, for older Total Access 750, 850 and 1500 shelves, the 1180005L1 OCU Dataport module links a DS0 timeslot to a four-wire customer circuit at up to 64 kbit/s. Meanwhile, the 1800001L1 TA IAD Install Kit includes a 50-pin Amphenol cable and a punch-down block for Total Access 600 and 800 series units.
New or used Adtran Total Access 900 gateways
Of course, used gateways make sense for replacements, spares and small rollouts that must match existing sites. However, new units can suit a fresh build with a long service plan. Silverback supplies new and used units, tested before they ship, so ask for the condition you want on each line.
Because gateways store configs and passwords, Silverback offers certified data destruction when you sell retired units back to us. Before you decide, read refurbished vs new enterprise hardware. For product news, you can also visit Adtran's official site.
Adtran Total Access 900 and TDM part numbers we supply
Here is every gateway, kit and TDM module in this family, as well as a short note on each. Then send the part number and get pricing and lead time within one business day, or browse our inventory.
| Part number | Product | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 4243908F1 | Total Access 908e (3rd Gen) | 8 FXS ports, router plus VoIP gateway |
| 4243908F2 | Total Access 908e (3rd Gen) with Lifeline FXO | 8 FXS and 3 Ethernet ports, as well as 1 Lifeline FXO |
| 4243916F1 | Total Access 916e (3rd Gen) | 16 FXS, 4 T1/FT1, 3 Ethernet ports |
| 4243916F2 | Total Access 916e (3rd Gen) with Lifeline FXO | 16 FXS as well as 1 Lifeline FXO, 1U rack or wall mount |
| 4243924F1 | Total Access 924e (3rd Gen) | 24 FXS, Gigabit Ethernet and T1, as well as a built-in firewall |
| 4243924F2 | Total Access 924e (3rd Gen) with Lifeline FXO | 24 FXS and 3 GbE ports, as well as 1 Lifeline FXO |
| 4242908L1 | Total Access 908e (2nd Gen) | 8 FXS, 4 T1/FT1 WAN, 2 x 10/100 LAN |
| 4242924L3 | Total Access 924e (2nd Gen) | 24 FXS, 4 T1/FT1 WAN, 2 x 10/100 LAN |
| 4212924L1 | Total Access 924 IP Gateway | Up to 24 FXS, T1 WAN, DSX-1 PRI/CAS for PBX |
| 1800001L1 | Total Access IAD Installation Kit | 50-pin Amphenol cable and punch-down block |
| 1189608L1 | MX408e Pseudowire Gateway | TDM leased lines over Ethernet |
| 1189608G1 | MX408e Pseudowire Gateway | 100Mb LAN and TDM interfaces |
| 1180005L1 | Total Access OCU Dataport Module | For TA 750, 850 and 1500; up to 64 kbit/s |
Ready to replace a gateway? Then request a quote with your list. Also, for copper access spares, see our outside plant DSL guide, or read our Adtran overview.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the 4243924F1 and 4243924F2?
Both are third generation TA 924e gateways with 24 FXS ports. However, the F2 adds one Lifeline FXO port for analog failover.
Do second generation 900e units have Gigabit Ethernet?
No. Instead, the 4242908L1 and 4242924L3 use four T1/FT1 WAN ports and two 10/100 LAN ports. Third generation units then add Gigabit Ethernet.
What does the MX408e do?
In short, the MX408e pseudowire gateway carries TDM leased line services over Ethernet networks. Silverback also supplies it as 1189608L1 and 1189608G1.
Is Silverback an Adtran reseller?
No. Silverback is an independent supplier of new and used Adtran gear. We test every unit before it ships.
Get a quote for Adtran Total Access 900 gateways
Send your gateway and TDM part numbers with quantities and condition. Then we reply with pricing and lead time within one business day.
You can also call (888) 391-5211 or request a quote online.




